first generation college

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "first generation college" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to describe individuals who are the first in their family to attend college or university. Example: "As a first generation college student, Maria faced unique challenges in navigating the higher education system."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

14 human-written examples

I am a first generation college graduate in my family.

The New York Times

7 Money woes confront first generation college students.

Science Magazine

She, herself, is a first generation college graduate.

Forbes

For first generation college students especially, these gaps are all too often barriers to success.

Forbes

However, an examination of first generation college students lends itself to a more concise definition.

Forbes

The first major obstacle that first generation college students face begins years before matriculation.

Forbes

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

46 human-written examples

Some want more first-generation college students.

The Washington Post

First-generation college students > United States.

Stanford University

Do you have admissions advice for first-generation college applicants?

The New York Times

Many graduating students are first-generation college students.

The Washington Post

Learn how to help first-generation college students succeed.

University of California, Berkeley

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing about students, specify "first generation college" status early to provide context for potential challenges or achievements.

Common error

Don't assume all "first generation college" students have the same experiences or needs; recognize the diversity within this group.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "first generation college" functions as an adjective phrase modifying an implied noun (student), describing individuals whose parents have not completed a four-year college degree. Ludwig provides numerous examples in diverse contexts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

46%

Academia

42%

Science

12%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "first generation college" is a commonly used and grammatically correct term describing students whose parents did not complete a four-year college degree. Ludwig's analysis reveals that it is most frequently found in news and media, and academic contexts. While it has a neutral register, it's important to avoid generalizations about this diverse group of students. Considering alternatives like "first in family to attend college" can provide more specificity in certain situations. In conclusion, understanding the nuances of this term is crucial for effective and sensitive communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

first in family to attend college

This clearly states the family context, emphasizing the lack of prior college attendance within the family.

first-generation university student

This alternative specifies the academic level more explicitly, clarifying that the individual is a student at a university.

first-generation higher education attendee

By using 'higher education', it specifies that is not just college but any form of education after secondary school.

student with no family history of college

This is a descriptive alternative that explicitly states the absence of a family history of higher education.

first-time college student

This option focuses on the experience of attending college for the first time, regardless of family history.

college student from a non-college family

This phrase emphasizes the family's lack of college experience.

pioneer college student

This highlights the groundbreaking aspect of being the first in the family to attend college.

student breaking the cycle of no college education

This alternative refers to intergenerational trend and refers to a new beginning.

non-traditional college student

This refers to students with unique backgrounds. The difference with "first generation college" is in the fact that it only focuses on family context.

college newcomer

This focuses on the aspect of being new to college and it's most useful when you want to focus on the inexperience of the subject.

FAQs

What does "first generation college" student mean?

A "first generation college" student is someone whose parents did not complete a four-year college degree. They are the first in their immediate family to attend college.

What are some challenges faced by "first generation college" students?

"First generation college" students may face challenges such as navigating college systems, financial difficulties, lack of family support, and cultural adjustments.

What can I say instead of "first generation college"?

You can use alternatives like "first in family to attend college", "first-time college student", or "non-traditional college student" depending on the context.

How do colleges support "first generation college" students?

Colleges often provide support through mentorship programs, financial aid resources, academic advising, and dedicated support services tailored to the unique needs of "first generation college" students.